SAINTS are defending a 40-year home record against Salford - but there haven't half been some close shaves this past three years.

Salford have previously lost all 15 matches at Knowsley Road since 1997, one game at Widnes in 2011 and eight at Totally Wicked Stadium (2012-2019).

Salford last won at St Helens on 12 January, 1980 (18-17). The Saints have won 35 consecutive home meetings between the sides since then.

But last year - in the corresponding home fixture - they needed a thrilling comeback, with James Bentley's late converted try securing a 32-30 victory.

Last ten meetings:

Salford 6, St Helens 23 (SLGF, 12/10/19)

(at Old Trafford, Manchester)

St Helens 32, Salford 30 (SLR15, 17/5/19)

Salford 4, St Helens 26 (SLR4, 28/2/19)

Salford 10, St Helens 60 (SLR13, 26/4/18)

St Helens 34, Salford 2 (SLR4, 4/3/18)

Salford 4, St Helens 30 (SLS8-R7, 21/9/17)

St Helens 25, Salford 24 (SLR19, 23/6/17)

Salford 22, St Helens 14 (SLR7, 30/3/17)

St Helens 34, Salford 20 (SLR14, 13/5/16)

Salford 44, St Helens 10 (SLR2, 11/2/16)

Super League summary

St Helens won 41 (includes win in 2019 Grand Final)

Salford won 6

St Helens highest score: 66-16 (H, 2001) (Widest margin: 58-4, A, 2000)

Salford highest score: 44-10 (H, 2016) (also widest margin)